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Mike Oldfield - Moonlight Shadow - Guitar Tab

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Mike Oldfield - Moonlight Shadow - Guitar Tab

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Mike Oldfield - Moonlight Shadow guitar tab video
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The Mike Oldfield Collection album cover
The Mike Oldfield Collection
2009 3:38
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Mike Oldfield Progressive Rock 2009 Am minor
Capo Advisor 0 Am minor · Original key

Moonlight Shadow

"Moonlight Shadow" is a song written and performed by English multi-instrumentalist Mike Oldfield, originally released as a single in May 1983 on his album Crises. Featuring vocals by Scottish singer Maggie Reilly, it became Oldfield's most successful single, reaching number one across numerous European charts. For electric guitar players, it offers a rewarding study in melodic picking, clean-tone arpeggios, and the layered instrumental textures that defined Oldfield's signature style.

  • Originally released in May 1983, 'Moonlight Shadow' topped charts across multiple European countries — Oldfield's biggest commercial single.
  • Vocalist Maggie Reilly, who sang the iconic melody, had collaborated with Mike Oldfield since 1980.
  • The song ran for nineteen weeks on the UK charts, peaking at number four and ranking as the 29th best-selling UK single of 1983.
Gibson Les Paul Standard
Guitar

Gibson Les Paul Standard

Mike Oldfield's primary electric guitar, the Les Paul Standard's warm, woody humbuckers and thick sustain perfectly complement his melodic, layered approach to guitar composition. The instrument's natural harmonic richness allows his overlapping guitar parts to maintain clarity without excessive treble, essential for his intricate multi-tracked arrangements.

Gibson Les Paul Custom
Guitar

Gibson Les Paul Custom

Oldfield used the Les Paul Custom's thick body and enhanced resonance to achieve the warm, sustained tones needed across his elaborate guitar orchestrations. The Custom's premium construction provided the tonal purity and harmonic complexity he prioritized, allowing dozens of layered guitar parts to blend cohesively without muddiness or ground hum interference.

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